Sunrises and Sunsets

I have wonderful memories of going on an early morning run with my dad. As the sun was rising, we would take the time to talk about things that matter most. We had a tradition of sharing our thoughts and feelings about God our Father and His Son Jesus Christ. We talked about our hopes, set goals. Morning sunrises have a special place in my heart.

I still find my thoughts reflecting on things that matter most, especially during sunrises.??

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A few days after my father’s funeral in Ireland I was feeling especially low. My wife told me to go outside and I witnessed one of the greatest sunsets I have ever seen. I felt like heaven was aware of me that day. The feelings of appreciation and absolute awe I feel never get old. No matter which part of the world I have lived in or visited I love spending time watching a sunrise or sunset.??

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I love sunrises and sunsets! I love watching the change in light and the colors. I love the opportunity to reflect on the moment. I love resetting my focus!???

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I actively seek out taking the time to reset. If I have had a bad day, I can celebrate the fact that the day is over as I watch the sunset and look forward to a new day. If the day goes well, I can celebrate a beautiful sunset and look forward to a new day.??

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Each day is a gift. Watching life ignite as each ray hits its path is beautiful to watch.??

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These two events have helped me reset my mindset. Days when I am filled with the could’ve, would’ve, should’ve, didn’t moments…evaporate and I can look forward to a fresh start.??

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Habits that I am trying to adopt or eliminate have greater perspective as viewed through these reset evaluation moments.??

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Sunrises and sunsets help me feel grateful for what I have.??

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Action Item: Take time to reflect on your gifts, talents, strengths each day. I like the end of my day, sunsets. I love looking forward to a new day renewed with hope and energy, hungry for improvement and a new personal best.??

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A Note on Evaluation: Evaluation is a powerful way to invest in oneself. Taking the time to reflect on what has gone well and deliberately focus on your individual strengths and successes is an important step toward personal growth and development. Asking yourself what I would have done differently and putting in plans to modify your behavior is an important second step in your personal growth and development. This one-two-punch combo only works if you are measuring behavior against an ideal, a purpose. ?